boast

Everyday

1. To boast means to talk too proudly about yourself, what you have or what you can do. tree →
2. To boast can mean to have something good that you are proud of: The town boasts a big park. tree →
3. A boast is a proud statement about yourself. tree →

In the lessons

In feelings and manners lessons, children learn that boasting can upset others and that being modest is kind. In fables, boastful characters, like the hare in The Tortoise and the Hare, often lose. Phrases: boast about, boast of, boastful.

Examples

• He always boasts about his new bike. tree →
• Stop boasting; it isn't nice. tree →
• The hare boasted that he was the fastest animal. tree →
• She boasted that she could swim a mile. tree →
• Our school boasts a huge library. tree →
• His boast that he could eat ten pizzas was not true. tree →
• It's fine to be proud, but don't boast. tree →
• Be sure of your pedigree before you boast of it. tree →

Note

Regular verb: boasted. Adjective: boastful. Similar words: brag, show off. Opposite: modest. Boast about or of something (not boast with).

In Jewish tradition

The Tanakh warns against boasting about wealth, power or tomorrow. Only God's power should be praised.

Interpretation. Tradition teaches humility. Jeremiah says to boast only of knowing God, and a person cannot count on tomorrow.

Examples

• Should the axe boast itself against him that heweth therewith? (Prophets ISA.10.15, JPS 1917) tree →
• Boast not thyself of to-morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. (Writings PRO.27.1, JPS 1917) tree →
• Of them that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches? (Writings PSA.49.7, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Regular verb: boasted. Adjective: boastful. Similar words: brag, show off. Opposite: modest. Boast about or of something (not boast with).